Nageshvara Temple, Hindu temple in Begur, Bengaluru, India

Nageshvara Temple is a Western Ganga complex in Begur with two shrines: the Nageshvara and the east-facing Nageshvarasvami. The Nageshvara shrine has a square sanctum, a vestibule, a closed hall and an open hall entered by balustraded steps at the south-west and north-west corners. Six unequally spaced white granite pillars, with square bases and fluted octagonal centres, stand in the open hall, where a Nandi sits on a lotus platform.

An inscription from 890 CE found in the temple provides the earliest written evidence of Bengaluru's existence in historical records. This discovery makes the site an important witness to the city's early past.

Local people call the complex Naganatheshvara. A legend says Ravana, having lost his atma linga at Gokarna, worshipped Nageshvara here on his way back to Sri Lanka. The halls hold images of Mahishasuramardini, Kalabhairava and a two-handed Ganesha, and the lintel carries Gajalakshmi flanked by elephants.

The temple is open during regular worship hours, with entrances accessible through balustraded steps on the southwest and northwest corners. It helps to note local customs and wear respectful clothing when visiting.

The ceiling of a closed hall displays intricate carvings from the Western Ganga dynasty period, with eight panels arranged in square patterns. This rare artistic arrangement often goes unnoticed by visitors.